What Temperature Should a Fridge Be?

It seems like common sense, but we have all asked ourselves “what temperature should a fridge be?” at some point in our lives. After all, refrigerators are a common household appliance now, but they are still a scientific marvel. The question is actually a very important one that many people often overlook. There are some severe consequences for those who do not check their refrigerator often in order to maintain the proper temperature. Diligence is always key, but in this case knowledge truly is power. In this article we will help you answer “what temperature should a fridge be?” and help you understand exactly why that is.

Maintaining Freshness

The ideal temperature for a refrigerator is 1.7 to 3.3 degrees Celsius. Keeping your refrigerator at this temperature will allow your products to maintain freshness for much longer. There are a number of problems that can come from over or under refrigeration. A dish that is in the freezer will taste less fresh because of the extreme temperature (depending on the food). The same food may not last as long, but will maintain freshness if it is in between the proper temperature as specified above.

Why it is Important to Ask “What Temperature Should a Fridge Be?”

It is important to ask the question because of the implications of under refrigeration. A fridge is meant to help stave off bacteria growth in an environment that is too cold for them to thrive. Anywhere between 1.7 and 3.3 degrees should be enough to maintain your food long enough to eat. Nonetheless, there are many different types of food and each has a different resistance to bacteria.

Meats are the most dangerous culprits of growing bacteria. If you are worried about the health of yourself and your family then you should maintain a strict regimen to throw out meats that are too old. However, if you are not maintaining the optimum temperature for your refrigerator then you may find bacteria growing on your food even quicker than you imagined.

Meat Storage Times for the Fridge

If you are storing meat in the fridge then you should probably abide by a few rules. Never keep ground meat in the refrigerator for more than 1-2 days. Poultry should also be thrown away if it exceeds 1-2 days in the refrigerator.

However, smoked meats and patties can last for up to a week in the fridge if the temperature is maintained throughout the time period.

What is the Correct Temperature for a Fridge?

This question is not just for housewives who want to maintain the perfect household. Maintaining the proper temperature in your refrigerator could mean the difference between life and death. If you own a refrigerator then you should maintain a 1.7 – 3.3 degree Celsius temperature no matter what you do. This will ensure that your food stays fresh and that your family remains healthy. Make sure to watch for recommended storage times for your favourite meats in order to stay safe.